Volunteers play an integral role in the day-to-day activities of ABGC and contribute to the decision-making processes of the organization. Volunteers can connect with other volunteers and leaders in the profession, creating a powerful professional network.
ABGC's annual Call for Volunteers takes place in June of each year.
ABGC Committees
Certification Exam Committee
The Certification Exam Committee oversees the development of the bi-yearly certified genetic counselor exam.
Chair: Kathryn Spitzer Kim
Continued Competence Committee
The Continued Competence Committee addresses issues related to recertification and ensuring competencies for genetic counselors are up to date and in line with current clinical best practices.
Chair: Sharon Aufox
DEIJ Committee
The DEIJ Committee works to ensure principles of diversity, equity, inclusion and justice are integrated into all ABGC work and initiatives.
Finance Committee
The Finance Committee works closely with the Board of Directors to oversee the development and execution of ABGC's annual budget.
Chair: Kate Wilson
Research Committee
The Research Committee oversess the annual Request for Applications (RFA) process and reviews all incoming ABGC reserach grant applications.
Chair: Alexis Carere
Board of Directors Nomination Process
The Annual ABGC Board of Directors election proceedings are undertaken with the highest degree of professionalism and confidentiality, reflecting the organization's mission, core values, strategic goals and bylaws. Excellent governance at the board level provides the vision and direction to ensure that ABGC and the genetic counseling profession are on the right path.
Board Composition
The ABGC Board of Directors is deliberative, and focuses on standard settings in professional practice. This differs from a representative Board, which focuses on representation from all geographic or practice areas, duration of experience or other demographic characteristics. Board Directors engage in high-level oversight of the Certified Genetic Counselor credential and promoting the profession. During their four-year terms, Directors help shape the organization's strategic goals and conduct the business of ABGC, which includes:
- Representing the board with dignity, respect and credibility
- Promoting the value of the ABGC credential
- Managing ABGC financial obligations
- Creating a fair and defensible certification examination and recertification program
- Monitoring the interests and concerns of Diplomates, active candidates, genetic counseling trainees and program directors
- Monitoring genetic counseling and allied health care credentialing trends
- Assessing and addressing professional misconduct or illegal activity by individuals holding or applying for the ABGC credential
Voting Process
The ABGC Executive Office sends unique electronic ballots for the Board of Directors election to each Diplomate in June of each year for all open Board positions. Ballots must be completed by the date indicated to be considered valid and be counted. Candidates receiving the highest number of votes are elected, and begin serving four-year terms on January 1 following the election.